Crime Rate on the Rise During Holiday Season

The holiday season is supposed to be the most wonderful time of year -- but in order to keep the mood merry, police are urging the public to steer clear of suspicious situations and naughty criminals. Christmas is just a few weeks away and already -- local authorities are dealing with their fair share of home invasions and aggravated robbery.

This holiday season is just like any other -- especially if you're a crook.

"Unfortunately our criminals may not have the money to go get Christmas presents for their families so they find illegal ways of doing that," said Bryan Police Department Public Information Officer Kelley McKethan.

With Christmas just a few weeks’ away criminals are out on the prowl, targeting your home, your car -- and authorities say -- even you.

“It only takes ten seconds for someone to smash your window and grab those items and leave,” said McKethan. “If someone does confront you, then comply with their demands and be a good witness. If you can, try and remember what they look like, if they have tattoos, or what they were wearing so you can give police a description that may lead to an arrest.”

College Station Police arrested Stephen Leon Chadwick for a home invasion robbery that happened a week ago. Across town in Bryan, police arrested Quillian Demon Davenport for aggravated robbery. According to police, the 23-year-old allegedly admitted he was one of three men who held up a 60-year-old Hispanic man at gunpoint Friday night. The suspects approached the victim at the 1200 block of San Jacinto Lane as he was walking home from the convenience store. Davenport and two other unidentified suspects allegedly demanded money -- and then took off with the victim's wallet -- and $127 cash. Affidavit's also state the three men were high on PCP.

Although the actions of many are unpredictable -- police say it's a good idea to expect the unexpected and practice safety-- even when it involves your family.

“The holidays can be a stressful time in people’s lives and it causes them to do some things that they may not normally do,” said McKethan.

Although it’s just a few days into the month of December, Bryan Police say aggravated assaults and burglaries are down compared to last year, but do say the crime rate typically increased during the holidays. Meanwhile College Station Police say there were 123 vehicle burglaries and 124 home break-ins in November and December of 2011.

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